BISD superintendent says 'Challenges will continue' after bond fails to pass

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Brownsville Independent School District superintendent Jesus Chavez said now that the district's bond failed to pass, issues across their campuses will continue.

"We are not going to be able to address the air conditioning," said Superintendent Chavez. "We are not going to be able to address the roofing or the windows."

Chavez said the general fund balance budget of the 2025-2026 school year will not cover major renovations, such as new HVAC systems or roof replacements.

Brownsville ISD has a total operating budget of $609 million. Over 60% of it comes from the state.

"Remember that when we talk about the 78 cents, for the educational piece, that is to pay for our teachers, all of our staff, support staff, that will continue," said Chavez. "But those aren't sufficient dollars for us to go and renovate a school."

Chavez said patchwork can be done to bring a temporary fix, but it will still not be enough for the 39 schools the bond would have fixed if passed.

Susana Ruvalcaba, city business owner and taxpayer, said $460 million was an unrealistic ask.

"They should have brought a more conservative bond forward, with the very urgent needs of the district," said Ruvalcaba. "Obviously, those are roofing and HVAC, which nobody wants to see kids or teachers in these types of environments."

Meanwhile, Ruvalcaba said the budget should be able to cover some of the work schools need.

"It is very hard pill for taxpayers to swallow that there isn't enough in that budget," said Ruvalcaba. "To do simple maintenance repairs to keep the schools up to date."

BISD officials said the current district emergency fund balance is around $98 million, which is per state recommendation.